January 14

Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God”. Philippians 4:6 (AMPC)

Fretting, or persistent fear may press up against us, causing pressure and distress, with anxious thoughts flooding in, pushing everything else away. “What if this happens”, we wonder? “Then what”? “Or what if that doesn’t happen?”, we worry, making it even worse. 

Yet here we have a promise right from the heart of God—“Don’t worry, dear heart” He says, “Just tell Me what it is. Tell me what is troubling you; what you are worried about? What matters to you?” 

“Tell Me your fears and I will calm them. Share with Me your hurts and I will heal them. Hand Me your burdens and I will carry them for you. Only worry not, that’s all, for I have you, surrounded and safe in My arms of love, and I will never let you go. No, never, not ever. Not even for a moment could it be so.” 

Rest in this promise, beauty, and remember you belong to Him. In every circumstance, large or small, the One Who loves you so, Who has you tucked up securely in the palm of His strong and capable hands, will take care of it all.

Prayer:

Jesus, I come today, just as you have told me to do, and I give thanks and praise to God for His glorious goodness, even in giving me new life in You.

I confess, Lord, that I am more prone to worry than to pray, and yet I know there is really nothing that I can do on my own in all that I worry about, for solutions, strength, and all good things come from You.

I take You at Your word today, Jesus, and I bring my burdens and my fears; my cares and my concerns; placing them all in Your strong and capable hands.

Forgive me for all the ways and times I have yielded to fear instead of leaning on You, as my Beloved, and finding that place of quiet rest, learning to trust You more and more.

I lean in now to Your arms of love, releasing all that is wearing me out and weighing me down, and I surrender it all to You. I am so grateful, Lord, for Your kindness and Your care. My hope is in You, Jesus. Thank You for the wonder of Who You are.  Thank you for all You do.